How to calculate body mass index

The Body Mass Index (BMI) is calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by the square of their height in meters, i.e., BMI = weight (kg) ÷ height (m)². The BMI value reflects the degree of body fatness and is applicable to most adults. According to the World Health Organization's BMI classification criteria: a BMI between 18.5 and 24.9 falls within the normal range; below 18.5 is considered underweight; between 25 and 29.9 is overweight; and 30 or higher indicates obesity. BMI can help assess health risks, as both underweight and overweight may increase the risk of diseases. However, BMI is not suitable for children, pregnant women, the elderly, or muscular athletes, because the body composition of these groups differs from that of the general population.